Family therapy is a form of psychological counseling that helps families cope with various challenges and improve their relationships. Family therapy can be helpful for families who are facing any of the following issues:

• Family crisis, such as death, illness, or trauma
• Family conflict, such as arguments, disagreements, or power struggles
• Divorce decision, or difficulty adjusting to a new life after divorce
• Doubts about whether to stay together or separate
• Trust issues, such as lying, cheating, or hiding secrets
• Infidelity or suspicion of cheating
• Sexual problems, such as lack of intimacy, desire, or satisfaction
• Children’s behavior problems, such as disobedience, aggression, or poor performance
• Depression, anxiety, or other mental health problems
• Anger, violence, or abuse in the family
• Infertility, or disagreement on whether to have children or not
• Addiction problems, such as alcohol, drugs, gambling, or workaholism
• Adaptation problems, such as moving to a new place, changing jobs, or retiring

Every family is different, and so is every family therapy. The therapist will tailor the therapy to suit the specific needs, goals, and preferences of each family member. The therapy may change over time, as the family progresses and faces new challenges.

Family therapy can be very beneficial for families who want to improve their communication, understanding, and cooperation. However, family therapy also requires some commitment, honesty, and willingness from the family members. Here are some key principles to keep in mind when thinking about family therapy:

A therapist is not a magician

A therapist can help you explore your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and guide you to make positive changes. However, a therapist cannot solve your problems for you, or make them disappear. You have to take responsibility for your own actions and decisions, and work together with your family to achieve your goals.

It is okay to be unsure about what you want

Sometimes, you may not know exactly what you need or expect from family therapy. You may have vague or conflicting feelings, or you may be afraid of what you might discover. That is normal, and a therapist can help you clarify your request and find your direction.

It is hard to help someone who does not want to be helped

Family therapy works best when all family members are motivated and engaged in the process. If someone is reluctant, resistant, or hostile, it can hinder the progress and outcome of the therapy. Without a realistic and cooperative attitude, it is unlikely that anything meaningful will be achieved.

It is preferable to save a relationship when both parties want it

Family therapy can help couples who are struggling with their relationship, and who want to improve it or save it. However, if one partner has already decided to leave, or has no interest in working on the relationship, then it may be better to focus on individual therapy and deal with the personal issues that arise from the separation.

If one of the partners does not want to participate and is skeptical, go to the therapy alone

You do not have to force or drag anyone to join the therapy, as that would be counterproductive and wasteful. You can still benefit from individual therapy, and work on your own issues and goals. Maybe your partner will notice the positive changes in you, and will become more willing and interested in joining the therapy later.

Do not wait until the situation becomes unbearable, act sooner

Family therapy can help you prevent or resolve minor problems, before they escalate into major crises. If you notice that there are some misunderstandings or difficulties in your family, that is the right time to seek therapy. Do not let the problems accumulate and damage your relationship.

A peaceful divorce and separation can also be a result

Family therapy does not always aim to preserve or restore a relationship. Sometimes, the best option for some couples is to end their relationship, and move on with their lives. Family therapy can help them do that in a respectful and amicable way, and minimize the negative impact on themselves and their children.

Even long-term partners can learn new things about themselves, their partner, and their relationship in therapy

You may think that you know everything about yourself and your partner, after spending many years together. However, people change over time, and so do their needs, desires, and expectations. Sometimes, you may lose sight of what is important, or take things for granted. Family therapy can help you rediscover yourself and your partner, and renew your relationship.

Do not be afraid that the therapist will force you into a long-term therapy

You can always ask for a single session, and see how you feel about it. This can be a very useful and informative step, and help you decide whether you want to continue or not. The therapist will respect your choice, and will not pressure you to commit to anything you are not comfortable with.

Be honest with the therapist, follow the tasks, and do not sabotage

This is for your own benefit, as you are doing this for yourself and your family. The therapist is there to help you, not to judge you or criticize you. The tasks that the therapist gives you are designed to help you practice and apply what you learn in the therapy. Do not lie, cheat, or avoid the tasks, as that would only harm yourself and your family.